Saturday, February 1, 2014

Run of the Ancient Mariner

Join us for an offsite event for writers who run. Experience first-hand why Seattle's known not only for its coffee-shop colonialism, but for its literary scene, running pedigree, amazing craft brew, and maritime culture. Take a break from the Convention Center, steer clear of the teeming tourists, and see other parts of Seattle on foot through the eyes of locals.

It's Free!

Registration costs nothing. Several local businesses have agreed to host and guide participants at the start and finish points of the runs and at our literary aid stations. A huge thanks to Andrea and Brian at Fleet Feet Seattle for letting us start the runs from their shop!

The Runs

Run of the Ancient Mariner features two untimed runs. The Queequeg Quickie begins on Capitol Hill at Fleet Feet Seattle and extends five miles, by way of the west side of Lake Union, to Brouwer's Cafe in Fremont. Ahab's Half also begins at Fleet Feet, but takes a longer tour, out along the waterfront through Interbay, Magnolia, and Ballard, to end at the same destination.

Each run will have a single aid station providing water, snacks, and a little belletristic distraction. Lake Union Charters & Adventures has generously offered the Glass Slipper, docked at South Lake Union, to host a mid-run break for participants in the Queequeq Quickie. World-class trail runner Phil Kochik has offered to host a stop for Ahab's Half at his Seven Hills Running Shop in Magnolia. Check back in a few days for more details about the aid stations and literary co-sponsors.

Post-Funk, Pre-Funk Party

No matter how far you run, you'll end up pretty funky, and will probably want to pre-funk before you defunk and go out to get funky at other AWP offsites.

Both runs will therefore culminate in a gathering at Brouwer's, Seattle's premiere house of beer worship, with 64 taps and a phone-book-sized bottle list. Beginning at 4 pm, the after-party should leave everyone enough time to shower and head out to evening AWP offsites, or you can spend the evening with us.